The concept of "funds of knowledge" is critically reviewed, tracing a history of the term's changing use since its original conception by Velez-Ibanez and Greenberg in the late 1980s, and discussing its relevance in adult literacy and numeracy classrooms. An attempt is made to locate the concept within wider theoretical frameworks, and in…

This article examines the growth of practitioner research in England through the creation of the Learning and Skills Research Network (LSRN) and identifies its effect on subsequent developments in what is generally known as the Lifelong Learning Sector (LLS). It offers an analysis of this development as a case study in developing practitioner…

This examination of the criteria used in the evaluation of library literacy programs reviews the relevant literature, discusses several evaluation models that have already been used in literacy projects, and outlines a proposed evaluation model. (EM)

This article presents my views and reflections on working with adult ESL learners at a community-based adult literacy program in the Southwest. In this article, I share my experience working with adult learners learning English as a second language and critically address and discuss issues significant to the learners in their language and…

Relates that, in the past two decades, Paulo Friere's philosophy has gained adherents in Brazil and several other nations. Reviews Friere's methods of adult literacy education and identifies serious criticisms. Argues that, while the Freirean system is nondialogical and impositional, his literacy efforts were ultimately worthwhile. (CFR)

Describes the development and pilot testing of an interactive software lesson series designed to increase reading and writing abilities of illiterate adults and adolescents. Results of pilot studies of the High Quality Educational Program indicate the microcomputer approach to instruction combined with appropriate software offers a promising tool…

This paper describes adult literacy pedagogy and philosophy in Australia and reports on two studies of adult reading disabilities. The first study, with 102 asthma patients, showed important differences among different tests of reading comprehension. The second study, using 11 case studies, indicated the need to integrate adult literacy…

The relationship between oral and written language skills was explored in this study involving 97 participants in an adult literacy program. Analysis of pragmatic language skills identified behaviors likely to detract from communicative effectiveness. A test of metalinguistic/semantic skills correlated with reading levels of subjects. Follow-up…

The development of reading ability among adults is compared with that of children. Discussed are the characteristics of adults at each developmental level, instruction for skill enhancement, difficulties experienced at various levels, a historical overview of literacy needs and standards, and the growing recognition of dyslexia in adults.…

Argues that female literacy in 18th-century America was more prevalent than suggested by previous studies. Relying on manuscript censuses and recent studies of deeds suggests that female literacy was almost universal by the 1790s. Explores the institutional opportunities for girls' education in colonial New England. (MJP)

The study of curriculum-based measurement (CBM), involving 57 adults in a basic literacy program, found that narrative rather than expository passages exhibited higher reliability. Level of difficulty did not affect reliability. Validity data showed inconsistency between CBM and standardized test scores. The measures were sensitive to student…

Reveals that literacy training in small, rural, and primitive communities can affect demonstrable changes in the feelings, attitudes, and well-being of its participants. Utilized interviews, discussions, and observations at two sites in Zambia to highlight the outcomes of literacy training. Discusses the program's weaknesses as well as strengths.…